What Is C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate?
C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate is a blend of phosphoric acid esters created from fatty alcohols that contain 12 to 13 carbon atoms. These fatty alcohols are first reacted with a small amount of ethylene oxide to form C12-13 Alketh-2, which is then treated with phosphoric acid to produce the phosphate ester mixture used in cosmetics. The ingredient is typically sourced from plant-derived fatty alcohols, though suppliers may use synthetic routes when consistency is critical.
The cosmetic industry began exploring phosphate esters in the late 20th century as a gentler alternative to harsh sulfates. Chemists found that adding a phosphate group to short ethoxylated fatty chains produced a surfactant that could clean effectively while maintaining skin comfort. Over time, C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate earned a spot in personal care labs because it balanced mildness, cost, and performance.
Its production follows a straightforward two-step process: ethoxylation of the fatty alcohol, followed by phosphorylation. Manufacturers carefully control reaction conditions to limit by-products and ensure the final material meets cosmetic grade standards.
You will most often encounter C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoo, micellar waters, and makeup removers. It can also appear in exfoliating scrubs, wipe solutions, and any rinse-off product that needs gentle yet thorough cleansing action.
C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate serves one key purpose in formulations, and that single role offers several practical benefits.
As a cleansing agent, it lowers the surface tension of water so oils, dirt, and makeup lift away from skin or hair and rinse off easily. Compared with stronger sulfated surfactants, it tends to be milder, helping products clean without leaving a tight or squeaky feel. Its balanced foam profile also makes it useful in clear or low-foam formulas, giving chemists flexibility when designing gentle cleansers for sensitive or dry skin types.
Who Can Use C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate
This gentle surfactant suits most skin types, including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin, because it cleans without harshly stripping natural oils. Very dry or compromised skin may still prefer formulas with extra emollients, since any cleanser can aggravate an already weakened barrier if overused.
C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate is typically produced from plant-derived fatty alcohols or fully synthetic sources, so it contains no animal material. For that reason products relying on it are generally suitable for both vegans and vegetarians, though shoppers who avoid palm oil may want to confirm the feedstock with the brand.
The ingredient has no known issues for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It stays on the skin only briefly in rinse-off products and is not absorbed in meaningful amounts. This is not medical advice so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss new skincare items with a healthcare provider just to be safe.
C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate does not create photosensitivity and has no special daytime restrictions. It is compatible with common actives like vitamin C or niacinamide and does not interfere with sunscreen performance.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate can differ. The points below outline potential side effects, yet most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation or redness, especially on very sensitive or broken skin
- Transient dryness or tightness if a product is left on too long or used excessively
- Eye stinging or watering if the cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or small bumps
If any of these reactions develop stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate is a water-soluble surfactant that rinses off completely and contains no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. Because it does not linger on the skin or leave an occlusive residue, it earns the lowest comedogenic score.
That makes it a safe choice for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in typical rinse-off products.
As with any cleanser, over-cleansing can disrupt the barrier and prompt compensatory oil production, so moderation remains wise.
Summary
C12-13 Alketh-2 Phosphate is a mild cleansing agent that lifts away oil, dirt and makeup by lowering water’s surface tension. Its balanced foam and gentle action let formulators create cleansers that clean effectively yet feel comfortable on skin.
The ingredient is not as famous as sulfates or coco-glucoside but shows up quietly in many modern face washes, micellar waters and body cleansers where a softer touch is desired.
Safety data rate it as low risk when used as directed, especially since it is rinsed off quickly. Still, skin can be unpredictable so doing a small patch test with any new product is a smart precaution.